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Your Complete Prep Guide for the 2015 RSA Conference

I spend my days (and nights) explaining how the strengths of the cloud - high availability, scalability, and interoperability - can help us overcome what is often considered its greatest weakness: security.

Spring is in the air, and we all know what that means: the RSA conference is right around the corner.

Based on past experience at RSAC and endless conversations with conference veterans, I’ve assembled a handful of tips to help you get the most out of your time in San Francisco.

Know The Agenda and Plan Ahead

With over 300 sessions scheduled this year, there’s bound to be no shortage of events you’ll want to attend. The bad news: you won’t possibly make all of them. The good news: much of the content is available online after the fact.

RSA Conference Survival Pack Must-Haves

These suggestions might be old hat for the RSAC veterans among us, but for the uninitiated, they may be lifesavers:

Whether you’re walking around the streets of the city or collecting swag in Moscone like it’s your sole purpose in life (no pun intended), comfortable shoes are a must.

Laugh now, but a portable charger for your mobile devices (I’d recommend something in the 10,000mAh+ range for multiple recharges) may save your life.

A communication strategy for your team, whether it’s a never-ending email thread, group text, a messaging app like WhatsApp, or messenger pigeons.

Another one that’s easy to balk at, but a refillable water bottle will likely save you a decent amount of cold, hard cash over the course of the conference.

Business cards. Easy to forget, great to have.

Hand sanitizer … because what happens in San Francisco … shouldn’t come home with you.

Stay in the Know with Social Media

Unsurprisingly, social media, particularly twitter, will offer up-to-the-second updates on everything from must-attend events to the best parties to which booth has the best swag. Here are the top five handles to follow:

@RSAConference – The conference’s official twitter handle, full of helpful logistical information and relevant infosec news.

@RSAparties – Though dormant so far in 2015, this handle has historically been full of life the week of the conference. Keep an eye on it.

@DarkReadingTim – Tim Wilson, editor of Dark Reading, is worth a follow regardless of your RSA plans, though he is typically on the scene come conference time.

@jack_daniel – A staple on the InfoSec scene, Jack always has something interesting to share.

@jjx – Another handle worth following whether you’re heading to San Francisco or not, Jennifer was particularly active last RSA conference.

Simplify Transportation

Getting around the city can be a bit of a headache, but it doesn’t have to be. Take advantage of ride services like Uber and Lyft (both offer extensive coverage in the area). If you’re feeling more communal, split cabs with fellow conference attendees or take advantage of the scheduled shuttles between the conference center and the popular hotels (schedule available here: http://www.rsaconference.com/events/us15/hotels-venue/hotels).

Be Ready to Party in Traditional RSA Conference Style

Looking for the party of the week? Everyone knows the destination: 420 Mason Street. Ruby Skye has long been the venue of choice for the biggest party of the RSA Conference and this year CloudLock is putting on the bash to end all bashes.

Whether you’re after the open bar, the opportunity to rub elbows with the industries best security professionals, or looking to dance the night away, Ruby Skye is always a memorable experience. Be sure to register early as passes are limited.

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